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March 3, 2553
As the Chief, Cortana, and the Arbiter's Pelican leaves for the Ark's atmosphere it passes the Shadow of Intent. "We are aboard. Humans and Sangheili. Will you not come with us, brother?" Shipmaster R'tas Vadum said in a concerned voice.
The Arbiter replies, as he stands by the Chief, "No. This is our fight. And I will see it finished."
The Pelican finally arrives at Halo. The Rear Starboard engine is too damaged for a normal landing. The Chief makes a crash landing in a snowy canyon near the Control Room. The Chief and the Arbiter clamber out. The Arbiter carefully tosses the Chief an Assault Rifle.
The Chief and the Arbiter, after stocking up on supplies from the Pelican, proceed to go through an icy cave and soon arrive at the structure. The Flood begin to drop in. The Chief and the Arbiter push their way to the top of the tower as Johnson appears on the cliff and starts shooting Flood with a Spartan Laser. "I've got you covered Chief, Arbiter. See you at the top of the tower," Johnson said into his com. The Master Chief and the Arbiter continue upward.
As the Master Chief and the Arbiter get close to the top, Johnson continues his reign of terror from the cliff. Finally, the trio secures the top floor and the Monitor opens the door.
The Chief, Arbiter and Johnson finally reach the Control Room. The Flood can be heard approaching. But the sealed doors will keep them out. Johnson takes Cortana and proceeds to go start the ring. But the Monitor shoots Johnson. He then turns to the Chief as he comes to Johnson's aid. The Chief is then flung backward and onto the floor. The Monitor turns on the Arbiter, unleashing his beam and knocking him out.
The Arbiter regains consciousness as the Monitor explodes and the Chief lights the ring. The Arbiter looks at Johnson's broken and lifeless body seeing all the burns from the Monitor. "I am sorry, Spartan. But come," The Arbiter said in a voice that held a hint of sadness. Once outside the Arbiter continues, "Even in death, your Sergeant guides us all."
The Chief and the Arbiter head along the cliff, encountering both Flood and Sentinels. Upon making it to Johnson's Warthog, the Arbiter jumps upon the gun, "You drive. I'll shoot," the Arbiter said with enthusiasm, "Go Spartan. Get us to the Frigate."
The Warthog tumbles and rolls as it crashes into the Frigate's hanger. The Master Chief and the Arbiter recover their senses, then the Dawn shifts. The Arbiter looks up in time to see a Scorpion tank begin to slide toward him; he takes cover behind a pile of crates as the tank plows into them. The Chief leaps over the Warthog, looking back, seeing the Arbiter digging himself out. The Chief nods at the Arbiter, who nods back. The Arbiter rushes to the bridge while the Chief runs to the hanger panel and plugs Cortana in. The Frigate's engines start. Cortana, having control of the ship's systems, launches the Dawn at full speed. The Chief, losing his footing grabs a hold of the terminal. The Dawn leaves Halo's atmosphere. As the Chief holds on for dear life, the Warthog flies out, hitting the Chief, who flies toward the hanger's doors. The Chief quickly regains his senses and punches into the floor to get a grip, halting near the back of the hanger. The Scorpion tank flies toward the Chief. He ducks his head just in time as it flies over him, narrowly missing him as it smashes the floor behind him and subsequently falling back to Halo.
The Arbiter, who had been running at top speed, finally makes it to the bridge. Strapping himself in the pilot's seat, takes control of the ship, "The controls aren't that different than those of our vessels," he thinks to himself.
The front half of the Dawn enters Earth's atmosphere. The Arbiter braces himself for a bumpy ride. The partial ship crashes into an ocean of ice. The Arbiter, unsure of communications sends out a beacon and prepares to wait. Lord Hood receiving the signal from the beacon, immediately sends out an engineering crew to cut the survivors out. Which ends up being the Arbiter, happy to be freed from the wreckage.
The Arbiter walks upon the hillside where the memorial service is being held. He stands along side the remaining marines that are attending. He listens as Admiral Hood does the last of the service. At the end the Arbiter walks up to Admiral Hood and stands beside him. "I remember how this war started. What your kind did to mine. I can't forgive you. But… you have my thanks for standing by him to the end," Admiral Hood said in a strained voice.
The Arbiter and Admiral Hood shake hands, "It's hard to believe he's dead," Admiral Hood said as he lowered his head.
"Were it so easy," replied the Arbiter as he leaves the memorial. His Separatist Phantom heads back to the Shadow of Intent, hovering above the Gateway to the Ark, which has lowered again. The Arbiter meets Shipmaster R'tas Vadum on the bridge, as he is looking at a holographic image of Earth.
"Things look different without the Prophets' lies clouding our vision. I would like to see our home, just to know it is safe," R'tas said with a hint of urgency in his voice.
"Fear not. For we have made it," the Arbiter said as he clenches a fist to his chest.
"By your word, Arbiter," R'tas said as he did the same.
"Take us home," replied the Arbiter as he takes the chair. The Shadow of Intent leaves Earth's atmosphere for its return to Sangheilios.
Two years later
April 4, 2555 Sangheili Adopted Time
The Arbiter sat on a rock overlooking an artificial river that looked very much like one of the rivers on his home world of Sangheilios. He was in one of the four Sangheili habitat chambers on the Shadow of Intent, his flagship. He had been lost in both thought and memory. Memories of his last battle alongside the Spartan.
The past two years had been a blur. Between traveling between Earth and Sangheilios getting the Alliance and trade agreements in order. Then came the whispers of the Covenant. The blind fools laid low and rebuilt their numbers for a short time. Soon, however, the attacks on the outer colonies came. The orders for these attacks had come from the new Hierarchs. Wisdom, Grace, and Sincerity. The new rulers of the Covenant.
At least the locations of the other Halos were safe. The Humans and Sangheili thought it would be safer if the locations were hidden on Earth. Granted only the even numbered Halos had the Flood, with the exception of Alpha Halo, considering its proximity to the Threshold research facility. But all could fire the deadly blast.
Then came the project of Terra Forming the planet Rayla for a Sangheilian colony. The discovery of the beacon in the planet's orbit. It had been the location of the Spartan. He was alive, or at least it was hope. Word was immediately sent to the Human Lord Admiral Hood for a rescue mission to the small uninhabited moon of Salemia that orbits Sangheilios. The Spartan had been so close but no one knew. The Sangheilian government had been notified of the Human mission. The Arbiter continued with his mission of checking the progress of Project Rayla.
Word of a meeting was sent on a priority channel from Lord Hood. He wanted the Arbiter to attend. The meeting was to be held on Luna, the moon that orbits the Human home world Earth, and where the Human had placed their first colony.
The Arbiter still lost within his thoughts kicked at the ground with his booted hoof. He had never noticed that R'tas Vadum; the Shipmaster of the Shadow of Intent, N'tho Sraom; a newly promoted Field master, or Usze Taham; the Spec Op Commander had approached. "Excellency, we shall arrive at Luna in ten minutes. We should prepare a landing party," R'tas said in a low but down to business voice.
"Yes. You are right," replied the Arbiter, "I was just lost in thought about how far we have come."
"I will agree, we as a race, have come far since the separation from the Covenant," R'tas said agreeing with the Arbiter.
"Who would you like to accompany you to the surface? I need to look at the roster so I can give out the assignments," N'tho said as he took out his holopad.
"There are only three I trust to accompany me on this mission. Only three I trust to help me. And that's you three. R'tas, brother, have a Phantom prepared we shall depart in fifteen minutes," ordered the Arbiter.
The Arbiter took one last look at the lush green trees and the blue water, "This is my safe haven," he thought to himself, "I shall return." He then he then thought about how much the Alliance had changed all their lives. The joint venture with the Humans that lead to the cloaking technology that fifty percent of the Human and Sangheilian ships have, including this one. The Arbiter turned right upon leaving the habitat. He continued down the hall to the gravity lift. He took the lift down two levels. He was soon joined in the hanger by R'tas followed by N'tho and Usze. Their new gold armor glistened in the dim light. The upgraded armor the Arbiter wore also glistened with a new shine.
They boarded their Phantom and prepared for their trip to Luna. The short ride to Luna's surface wasn't as bumpy as they expected. The lack of atmosphere helped. The pilot took the Phantom to door 2318 of the UNSC building. The four Sangheili left the Phantom and made their way to the conference room.
David didn't know but something was up. He was called to the moon for a meeting. He was going on a mission when it was called off at the last minute. David shook his head and said, "I hate meeting?"
As he walked to the conference room. David was on Earth going though some training because this up coming mission he would be gone for about a week. The rest of his Spartans were with him also. Some Marines were against them. David and the Spartan's had some paint balls while the Marines were using live rounds. David saw that the Marines were moving towards them in the beta formation.
David smiled because they were walking into a trap. That is when the Marines stopped a few yards then one of them looked around then the Marines headed back. David knew these Marines were the best against all the others but there was something else going on. David looked at the status of everyone and saw that Lynn and Matt were upset. Betty on the other hand was calm as a leaf. Andy was rubbing his assault rifle as he wanted to have some fun. David knew he couldn't risk a communication with his team. Alice could give everyone a message but that would be a problem also. David checked his radar and saw that the marines were about 100 yards away. David put his radar to maximum and was that there was something sitting on the edge of the radar.
David had to guess it was some support of some type. David could have a look but that would mean leaving his position to find out. David then got an idea if they fall back to meeting location he could find out what is going on. Betty must have begun reading his thoughts so she sent him a green light that it was clear to move out. David took a look around and then saw that there wasn't anyone or anything around so he started to crawl back to a safe location. Betty was waiting for something to happen. She was in a trance that makes her hearing better then anyone else. She heard the marines were leaving. She could hear David's moving his armor slightly because he was tense. Andy was rubbing his assault rifle because he was nervous. Betty sent David a green light that she agrees with his idea. Then she heard him moving out of his position.
She moved out of her position also and moved out then everyone else moved out. Once they were a safe distance away. David picked a stick and did up a plan in the dirt and then went over things without saying anything. Lynn and Matt were still new to his group but they picked up on his movements. David taught them everything about moving his hand slightly in one way to a flick of the finger. Lynn tapped a spot then pointed to herself. David nodded and then circled the whole thing in a circle. Everyone nodded their heads as they understood.
They moved out and then waited. David had a funny feeling that there was some support. David saw that the marines had some big guns there. A Scorpion tank and some Hornets. They weren't holding back. David had to take out those before the marines used them. He had some new tech he created but it hasn't been field tested yet which means it would be fun. David moved in while everyone else watched his back. David moved slowly because he was about to enter the enemy's camp. David knew the Marines were busy thinking what some Spartans would do against us when he has these here. David shook his head slightly because the Spartans were on the edge of their base and they didn't know it. David was almost in position when he heard a roar of an engine. David took a look and saw it was a Warthog.
Betty was watching David move slowly into position. Everyone else moved into position also. Betty got ready to cover everyone from her position. Betty heard a roar of an engine then saw a Warthog coming into base which meant trouble. Betty smiled behind her helmet and said, "I am your god so be prepared to be knocked out."
Then she was it was an Admiral. Betty didn't know but something wasn't right. David sent everyone a red light telling them to hold position.
Andy was in position to knock the Marines out around the armory and then deal with anything that might come his way. Andy checked his gear once more and waited for the signal to move. After couple of minutes. Everything stopped. An Admiral showed up in a Warthog. This didn't sit right with him or David. David sent a red light telling them to hold position. The Admiral removed a loud horn and said, "Spartans. This is Admiral Patterson. I know you are out there. This training has been cancelled by Lord Hood himself. Will all of you please come on out." Lynn and Matt were only a few yards away from each other and they had a clean shot at everyone including the Admiral. Then David stood up.
David knew it something was up but he didn't know what. So he stood up and said, "Clear."
Admiral Patterson said, "Clear." Admiral Patterson works with ONI Section 5. Then the Marines got ready to shot but the Admiral said, "Don't shoot. If you do then they will win."
The marines lowered their weapons. David walked up to the Admiral and said, "You are lucky I didn't knock you out."
Admiral Patterson smiled and said, "Nice to see you again David."
David removed his helmet and said, "What is up. When you show up in person I know something isn't right." Admiral Patterson shook his head and said, "Where is your squad?"
David crossed his arms and said, "They are a few miles away. I came in alone because it was easier for me to come in alone then with the other."
Patterson nodded his head and said, "I understand. Lord Hood wants you on the moon right now? An important mission has come up and it is big."
David uncrossed his arms and said, "What are you talking about. Section 5 would contact us when something came in?"
Admiral Patterson shook his head and said, "I know but section 5 is on this mission."
David ran his hand thought his hair and said, "I don't know."
Meanwhile Betty saw David moving in to talk to the Admiral. The way he was talking to him it must be Admiral Patterson. The only person David would listen to besides section 5. She saw David cross his arms so she got ready. After a moment David uncrossed them which meant clear but stay alert. Then Andy, Matt, and Lynn green light blinked as they got the message also. Plus they were moving in to have better access to everyone in the base. David ran his hand thought his hair. Betty smiled because it meant David didn't know what to do. It was only something the two of them share. When he was wearing his helmet he would do the same movement. Betty moved closer to listen in but that wasn't necessary. David had set his com to open so everyone could listen in.
Andy, Lynn, and Matt moved closer to together. If things got hairy they would need to cover each other. They were listening in when the Admiral said, "David. Radio the Spartans and tell them to come on in."
David started to laugh and said, "You are all surrounded." That is when the rest of the Spartans showed up.
Admiral Patterson shook his head and said, "How long?"
David said, "When you showed up."
Patterson shook his head and said, "Ok. Let us head on out."
Then one of the marines were about to shoot David but then a dart was sticking out of side of his neck. Andy said, "Next time. All of you will be like him."
David shrugged his shoulders and said, "Please don't. I don't like a gun being pointed at me."
Admiral Patterson nodded his head and said, "Come. We don't want to keep the Lord Hood waiting."
David put his helmet back on and said, "Dragons pack up."
The Dragons were David, Betty, Andy, Lynn, and Matt. David Spartan 119 was the leader of the group. His second in command was Betty 005. Andy 197, was a Spartan that makes jokes to calm everyone down. He would tell stories of his battle against the Covenant only with a pistol. Lynn 020 was new to the group. She and Matt only joined during the war. Section 5 wanted some more people in the group. Lynn was still in training to become a Spartan when the order came that she was needed. Matt 060 alone with Lynn was new to the group. He was transferred in the same day as Lynn. Both of them would stay close to each other and watched each others back.
David started to walk when a Pelican came flying in. Alice said, "Well it is better then walking?" Alice was David's personal AI. David had created her. He wanted someone that knows what he is thinking. The UNSC ones weren't good. But with Alice it was different. She knew when to talk to him and not too. The Pelican circled twice then land on the landing pad. David smiled because there was a mark on the Pelican.
David said, "Eagle. I should have known."
Once the Pelican landed the back hatch open and the pilot walked off and said, "Hello to you also."
David walked up to him and said, "Nice mark on your ship." Erin call sign Eagle laughed and said, "Ya. This way you know it is me no matter what. And when I am around."
David held out his hand and Erin shook it. Then Erin said, "I am your ride."
David shook his head and said, "Ok. Dragon's load up and get ready."
Erin moved out of the road in time when the Spartans went running up the ramp. Admiral Patterson smiled and said, "Let us get going."
Erin nodded his head and said, "You got it sir." David walked up the ramp last then took his spot. Erin closed the hatch and then lifted off. Erin was someone that doesn't know fear. He would drop off some supplies and pick up some wounded.
David smiled and said, "Sir. What is this mission?"
Then someone said, "You know David. You shouldn't be asking so many questions." Then the door open leading from the cockpit open and there was Dr. Hallow. The Spartan's mom. The only mom they have known. Lynn and Matt understood what that meant.
David said, "Hello there mom. What is going on?"
She walked down the steps and said, "I don't know. But you shouldn't be asking questions that I don't know." David stood up and said, "Sorry about that."
She waved it off and said, "How has my Dragons been?" Dr. Hallow was someone that could tell who was in what armor without looking at her data pad.
David removed his helmet and said, "Looks like you are worried Mom."
She walked up to David and said, "I am. I have being going over some reports and I saw that you haven't being resting like you are ordered too."
David made a motion for her to sit down next to him so they can talk. So she sat down. Then David said, "Sorry. Section 5 has been keeping us busy. I know that look Mom." Then sat down. "I have being eating when I can. Alice keeps on telling me to eat. If I don't she would shock me and then say, 'Well'. So I grabbed some food and ate it." David said.
Alice showed up on Dr. Hallow pad and said, "That is true. Ugly."
Andy said, "I am going to remember that one."
David shook his head and said, "I will get you back."
Andy shrugged his shoulders then went back doing what he does best. Thinking of jokes. Dr. Hallow smiled and said, "David. I want to know what you are going to do now. I mean after you are done this mission?"
David smiled and said, "Find a good place and retire for a couple of months."
Betty removed her helmet and said, "You sound like me there for a moment. When it comes around you would say, 'Can't now' or 'Not in the mood' well?"
David shook his head and said, "I know but something else isn't right I can feel it." Dr. Hallow put a hand on his shoulder which meant a whole lot to him. Then the Pelican shook as it left the atmosphere. David and Betty put their helmet back on.
Admiral Patterson and Dr. Hallow moved into the cockpit. Erin said, "Where on the moon am I going?"
Dr. Hallow said, "Go here and land but don't do anything until ordered. I out rank everyone here so you will obey my commands."
Erin nodded and said, "Coming to door 8270. And preparing to land."
Dr. Hallow said, "Sorry about I am sorry."
Erin nodded his head and said, "Don't worry about it. Want me to dock?"
Then a message came in and it read, 'Please land and then unload the packages.'
So Erin looked at Dr. Hallow and she said, "Please." Erin moved the Pelican down and then slowly moved into the docking bay.
Once they were in the docking bay Erin turned off the engines and said, "Docking compete."
David felt the Pelican moving then landing. He felt the gravity from the moon. David shook his head and said, "I want this mission to be over so I can have some fun creating some new toys."
Then back hatch open and then the cockpit door open. Admiral Patterson, Dr. Hallow, and Erin walked out. David stood up and said, "So we are here on the moon?"
Dr. Hallow looked at him and said, "Ok. Everyone off the ship now." David walked off the Pelican. Everyone else walked off the ship then David removed his weapons and then gave them a once over.
Admiral Patterson said, "Ok. Let us get you some good gear."
David walked over to some crates and open them. He grabbed an Assault Rifle and a Pistol. Betty grabbed her favorite weapon a Sniper Rifle and a Sub Machine Gun. Andy picked up a Rocket Launcher and an Assault Rifle. Matt grabbed a Shotgun and a Pistol. Lynn grabbed an Energy Sword and an Assault Rifle and said, "I am ready."
Then everyone else nodded their heads. So they headed to the conference room. As they walked David felt something wrong. Alice said, "Calm down. Nothing will happen unless Andy fires the Rocket Launcher inside."
David laughed and said, "Good point."
Andy said, "What. I like to have big toys?" David shook his head and walked into the conference room when he saw something standing there with Lord Hood.
The Arbiter and his three companions entered the conference room. Lord Hood looked up and said, "You made it, thank you for coming."
The Arbiter replied in a tired but calm voice, "It sounded urgent."
The Arbiter looked around the room and in the far corner stood a familiar face. The Arbiter clicked his mandibles into smile and said, "Spartan, it is indeed good to see you."
The Master Chief reached out and shook his hand. Cortana, not wanting to be left out said, "Well, he's not the only one here."
"Construct, it is good to know you made it also," a rather embarrassed Arbiter said quickly.
"Arbiter, there are footsteps coming down the hall," R'tas Vadum said in a concerned voice.
"Is there anyone else coming to this meeting?" the Arbiter asked Lord Hood.
"Yes, that is probably them," replied Lord Hood in a all business tone.
The Arbiter and the other Sangheili stood beside Lord Hood as the door opened.
David saw something standing up against the wall. David saw it was an Elite. Before anyone could stop him. David had the Elite up against the bulkhead and then put his energy sword up against the Elites throat. The rest of his Spartans had their weapons pointed at the others. Betty moved in front of Dr. Hallow to protect her. Andy moved Admiral Patterson behind him. Lynn and Matt both flanked Betty and Andy for more cover. Lord Hood said, "Everyone stand down right now."
David didn't care right now these Elites were on his turf and he wanted them dead. The Spartan in the room walked up to David and said, "Stand down right now."
David said, "Back off. Right now we have the upper hand and I don't want to lose it."
Dr. Hallow moved out behind of Betty and said, "David. Stand down now. That is an order."
David looked at her and said, "Ok. If they attack any of us I will kill them."
She nodded her head and said, "Let him go right now."
David released the Elite.
Lord Hood said, "Please tell them to lower their weapons." The Elite, David had up against the wall looked at the Elites and they lowered their weapons but two of them gave a low growl.
Lord Hood said, "Ok. Now that is over with I would like to introduce you to the Arbiter leader of the Sangheili."
David didn't move a muscle. Dr. Hallow looked at him and said, "David."
David removed his helmet and said, "Sorry." Then attached it to his hip. Dr. Hallow looked at Betty, Andy, Lynn, and Matt. They lowered their weapons but didn't removed their helmets.
Lord Hood said, "Please let us sit and talk."
David walked around the room but stopped in front of the Elites. Then went back checking the room out. Once it was clear David said, "Clear."
Alice showed up on a pedestal and said, "All communication in and out have to go thought me. And everything else is clear."
David relaxed and said, "Sorry. Dragons." The Dragons lowered their weapons some more.
Then Admiral Patterson said, "Sir. Can you please tell us what is going on here?"
Lord Hood sat down and said, "There is a mission that came up. But the problem is that it is somewhere you know about Arbiter?"
The Arbiter leaned toward Lord Hood. David reached for his gun the Arbiter looked at David and said as the other Sangheili growled and reached for their weapons, "Relax, Human. We are all allies here. Lord Hood knows this he called me here," He looked at the other Sangheili and said in his native tongue, "Ti wolla t'now, ylla dna dneirf ym, Nomed rehto eht. Su mrah ton lliw eh. Srehtorb, nwod dnats."
David moved his hand as the Arbiter continued, "My race hasn't harmed a Human in two solar cycles, which is two of your years. You have my word no harm will come to anyone here. Our word is part of our honor."
R'tas Vadum interrupted the Arbiter, "I am terrible sorry, excellency. But I need to say this. Human don't question our honor. For we are an honor bound race."
David walked over and stood next to his Spartans. The Master Chief said, "What is going on."
Then the room darken and then another figure showed up on another pedestal and said, "I don't know about you. I want to get out of this station system."
David said, "Another AI?"
The new AI looked at David and said, "I thought the Chief was the last Spartan still in combat."
Alice said, "I will give you the information if you like. My name is Alice."
The AI said, "Nice to meet you. I am Cortana."
David said, "Nice to meet you."
Lord Hood cleared his throat to get everyone's attention. Lord Hood said, "Ok. Now that is over I would like to get this meeting going."
David sat down on the chair that was made for a Spartan. David said, "Sorry. What is this mission you have us going on sir?"
Alice in a some humor behind it said, "Let him talk. You Brute kisser."
Andy started to laugh and said, "Brute Kisser. I love that one."
Lord Hood said, "What is with the laughing."
David looked at Andy and said, "At least I don't walk like a Grunt." Andy shook his head. Then David said, "Andy is the one that tell jokes before, during, and after mission to calm everyone down. Also it helps when the tension as high as it is."
Lord Hood nodded and said, "Ok. Now let us get back to the business at hand. We got reports that some Brutes are still attacking some planets."
David shook his head and said, "Alice."
Alice said, "Confirmed. It is true?"
David said, "Sorry."
Lord Hood nodded and said, "It is alright. You will be going with the Arbiter to a section of space where the Brutes have been seen in. If you come across any enemy ships."
David smiled and said, "Destroy them?"
The Master Chief was listening when Cortana said, "What do you think of these new Spartans?"
Inside his helmet? The Chief said, "I don't know. I haven't seen them in action before so I don't know what they can and can't do."
Then a map showed up of the location where they were going. David rubbed his chin and then leaned back in the chair. Admiral Patterson said, "Sir. What was the last location of the ship in that area."
Lord Hood zoomed on a section and said, "Right here. The last know strength was about five ships. Two Carriers and three Destroyers."
Admiral Patterson took a sharp inhale and Alice said, "Sir. I have a plan if you don't mind."
Lord Hood nodded his head and said, "What is your plan?"
Then the some green blips showed up on the map. Then she said, "We would jump at the edge of the system then move in slowly. As we move in we send in some probes. To see what is waiting for us up ahead." As she talked some small blips moved away from the ships and then started to move towards the center of the area.
Lord Hood said, "Ok. I didn't know you were this good?"
Alice said, "Don't worry. I was going over the map and doing some tactical ideas. If we jump right in close to the center we would have time to react. But if we jump far away then we can be ready. I will have our ship get ready? But I can't say anymore about the ship because it is classified under ONI section 5."
The Master Chief said, "I have to agree. That way we can be ready. We can lunch our fighters in a patrol patten."
Lord Hood said, "Ok. When will be you be able to leave?"
Alice said, "Our ship is ready right now. They are on standby."
The Arbiter looked at Ship master R'tas Vadum and said, "How soon could you have the Shadow of Intent ready for departure?"
R'tas replied, "In about a quarter unit, excellency."
"Lord Hood, we can be ready in fifteen of you minutes," the Arbiter said as he looked at Lord Hood.
Then David said, "Ok. Contact my ship when you are ready. Dragons. Load the ship with some supplies that we might need."
Then Betty said, "Sure thing."
Then they left. David said, "I will pass the word along to them on what you are going to say?"
The Arbiter looked at R'tas and said in an authoritative voice, "R'tas, brother, take N'tho and Usze. Return to the cruiser and make it ready for departure. I will join you in less than a quarter unit."
R'tas not taking his eyes off the new Spartan said, "By your word, Arbiter." He placed his right arm over his chest is a salute then left with the other two Sangheili.
Once they were out of the room Lord Hood said, "Please lock all the doors."
Alice said, "What is going on?"
Cortana said, "All doors are locked sir."
Lord Hood said, "What I am about to tell you is classified. You may tell your teams but no one else. Dr. Hallow, Admiral Patterson, and Master Chief please seat."
Dr. Hallow sat close to the Lord but across from the Arbiter. David reached for his weapon and said, "I am sorry for moving my hand to my weapon. Still don't trust the Covenant."
"I am not Covenant," replied the Arbiter in a disgusted voice.
The Master Chief said, "Please. We all friends here."
David moved his hand away from his weapon and said, "Ok. But it if does anything to hurt these two or the Lord I will kill him."
Lord Hood cleared his throat and said, "Now. That is settled., Arbiter. What do you have in store?"
The Arbiter removed a data chip from his holopad and placed the chip in the data console on the table. The Arbiter said informatively, "The Brutes are massing an attack on these systems," he pointed to the systems on the outer edge of the colonized galaxy.
Meanwhile Betty was walking to the Archangel to get everything ready. As she walked Matt said, "I don't know who is uglier. David or that Arbiter?"
Betty stopped and said, "One of us should be with him but we have orders. Let us get going."
Lynn said, "What is wrong?"
Betty said, "Worried about leaving him alone without any backup."
Lynn put a hand on Betty's shoulder and said, "Don't worry. He can take care of himself."
Betty nodded her head and said, "Ok. Thanks I needed to hear that because I have more important things to do."
Lynn removed her hand and they went back walking. Erin was reading a book when a message came in. It had only being thirty minutes when everyone left the Pelican. When he looked at the message and it was from one of the Spartans. He read it and it was an order to get the Pelican ready to carry some supplies.
Erin smiled and said, "I want to know why we need supplies for." That is when the Pelican shook. He had a guess it was a Spartan. He looked thought the cockpit door and saw it was one of the Spartans alright. So he got off his chair and then walked up to them. Betty had reached the docking bay and then sent Erin a message telling him to get the Pelican ready to carry some supplies. Then she jumped onto the Pelican. Then Erin poked his head out of the hatch and saw it was. Then he came out and said, "What are carrying?"
That is when Matt came in carrying a create of ammo for a Battle Rifle.
Erin said, "Ok. I will have to make a few trips from there to the ship. What ship are we. Classified right?"
Betty nodded her head and said, "You have that right. I will tell you what ship when we get some more supplies on."
Erin nodded his head and said, "Sure thing. This ship can handle about six more creates after that I don't want any more."
Betty nodded her head and said, "Sure."
Then Lynn came up the ramp with a create of Battle Rifles. She put it down next to Matt's create and then went for some more.
Andy said, "You know. I would carry a Brute over my shoulder dead and still carry some more."
Lynn shook her head and said, "If that happens then I am a Grunt."
Everyone got a laugh. Then thirty minutes later the Pelican was on it's final trip. This time they were going to grab some more ammo for the ship and the weapons.
David was looking at the map and said, "Ok. How about this. We head for this location along with the Shadow of Intent. Once there we would move into the system. The Archangel would travel close to Shadow of Intent. Once we engage the enemy we will move away and fire our weapons. You will knock out there shields and we will give them a final blow."
The Arbiter was closely listening to this Spartan named David. The plan so far was pretty well thought out. After a moment or two the Arbiter said, "Your plan has a flaw. We have the same shields and weapons as the Covenant. We could set our weapons to knock out their shields with one strike. Then take them out with the next. We could destroy their cruisers while you deal with their fighters and support craft."
David shook his head and said, "You can't take all of them out on your own. I might head to another location far from you ugly."
Lord Hood shook his head and said, "Ok. Now let us talk about what we are going to do?"
David leaned back in his chair and then put his helmet back on. Dr. Hallow said, "Sorry. David wants to be part of the action he doesn't like looking in from the side lines."
David said, "Alice." Alice started to play his calming music for him. David wanted to get going the longer they talk the more the enemy gets prepared. David heard Dr. Hallow tell them that he doesn't like to sit on the sidelines. Then everyone quieted down for a few minutes. During the quiet David removed his helmet and said, "How about this. If you don't mind me telling you a plan?"
The Arbiter not used to this new Spartan looked at the Master Chief then back to David and said mockingly, "Ok, what is your plan, Demon?"
David stood up and said, "What did you call me?" Admiral Patterson has seen David upset and knew what would happen when David reached it.
Lord Hood said, "Stand down now. He didn't mean to call you it. In his eyes you are a demon. He calls the Chief the same thing."
David sat down and said, "Ok. Sorry for that. We could use one of our Shiva's and knock their shield down then you can destroy them."
The Arbiter leaned back in his oversized chair and said, "I'm not sure. The blast and radiation from your Shivas would knock out our shields as well. What other types of weapons does your ship have?"
David smiled and said, "I am sorry but I can't say. Under the ONI section 5 rules."
The Master Chief said questioningly, "What is this Section 5 you are talking about. I didn't know there was any other."
David said, "Alice. You are going to be a witness which means you will record this."
Alice showed up and stood next to David and said, "What are you talking about. Never mind. You are losing your brain cells when you think too hard." David said, "Alice."
Alice nodded her head and said, "Ok. I am recording it now."
David said, "ONI section 5. Works in the shadows like section 3. But this section doesn't one place they are operating out of. They have so many they change from one location to another location without warning. My ships doesn't exists which means anyone besides section 5 and a few outsiders know about my ship. My ship is the most advanced ship in the navy."
The Arbiter said inquisitively, "What are you getting at, Human? Are you saying my ship is primitive?"
David smiled and said, "My ship can destroy two ships and still have some power left over."
Lord Hood said, "I didn't know." David leaned back in his chair and said, "I can't tell you anymore then that."
Alice stopped the recording and said, "Ok. I have the file."
David said, "We have to make some plans because I don't want to leave Earth or Sangheilios undefended. I know that your ships have shields but some of our older ships don't. If you don't mind sending about twenty of your ships here to make sure Earth is safe."
The Arbiter looked at David and said, "We can do that. We have a fleet protecting Sangheilios. I can have a small fleet of twenty ships along with four hundred support craft. It will be here in three units. That's three hours for you," the Arbiter got on his comlink and told R'tas to order the ships.
David nodded and said, "Ok. Now that is settled we should get going because I want to get there soon. They are only a couple jumps away from a planet."
Lord Hood said, "Ok. Arbiter and David would head to this location. Master Chief will travel on the Shadow of Intent while David rides on his ship."
David said, "Ok. I will see you in a few moments then." David stood up and said, "Elite."
The Arbiter looked at David and said, "See you on the battlefield, Spartan. Make sure you download the program that will mark any Sangheili controlled ships friendly."
Then David left. Which left Lord Hood, Dr. Hallow, The Arbiter, Master Chief, Cortana, and Admiral Patterson in the room alone.
David left the room and then head to somewhere he could look outside. Then he saw a couple of Elites down the hall. David reached for his weapon. They turned around and one of them said, "Demon."
David walked up to them and said, "Watch it."
Then another Elite showed up and said, "Knock it off. Sorry about that I am Aloe 'Likos."
David said, "Nice to meet you. I am Spartan 119."
Aloe 'Likos smiled and said, "The Honor is all mine."
David held out his hand and said, "You want to join me for a walk?"
Aloe said, "Sure. You don't mind walking with an Elite?"
David said, "I don't mind only if you don't do anything stupid. Like attacking me?"
Aloe clicked his mandibles then said, "Sure."
David saw that Aloe had One-Eye so he said, "Hey One-Eye."
Aloe looked at David and said, "What did you call me?"
David said, "I didn't mean too. I called you One-Eye. Because you have lost one of your eyes."
Aloe touched the part where he was and then said, "One-Eye. I like that Demon."
David said, "I don't know if I like begin called 'Demon.' It doesn't feel right."
Aloe said, "Ok. But you may call me 'One-Eye' because it is too hard for all you humans to call us by our names."
The Two Elites were listening when one said, "Leave our leader alone Demon?"
David said, "Back off." Then the two Elites attacked David.
Meanwhile Alice showed on Dr. Hallow data pad and said, "David is in a fight down the hall."
Admiral Patterson got up and ran out of the room until he came across David with one Elite up against the wall and the other on the floor. He said, "Stand down."
David said, "I am leaving. I hope to meet you again One-Eye."
One-Eye nodded his head and said, "Sure. Until we meet again Demon."
David nodded his head and said, "Only you may call me that."
One-Eye nodded then watched as David left with this new person. David walked back to the conference room with Admiral Patterson right behind him. Once he entered the room Lord Hood said, "What happen."
David removed his helmet and then a Data Clip. Dr. Hallow came up and took the Data Clip.
Master Chief said, "Would you mind sharing what you have on the data clip?"
David said, "It shows records everything I have seen or heard. That way someone can go back thought it and have a look at it. It also helps when I go on missions."
Master Chief said, "You mean like Intel?"
David removed his helmet and said, "Yup."
Then Dr. Hallow put the clip into her data pad and started to play it. She started to play it from the time he left to when he came back. She said, "I see. You were talking with an Elite." Then she transferred it so everyone could see it. They saw David walking down the halls when he came across a couple of Elites. Then the camera jerked as he reached for his weapon.
Alice said, "Well I leave you for a moment and you get into trouble." David smiled and said, "I didn't mean too."
The Arbiter said in an apologetic voice, "You have my apologies. I will deal with my Sangheili brothers upon my return. They never should have attacked you. They will be punished."
Lord Hood shook his head and said, "Don't worry about it. I should have known there would be some Elites walking thought the halls." Then it showed David knocking one of them out then pinned the other one up against the wall. Then it was all on the video.
"Looks like you befriended on of my Zealots. I'll get a statement from him as to why the others attacked," the Arbiter said in a low voice that showed his wisdom as well as his age.
David smiled and said, "His name is Aloe 'Likos or his name is 'One-Eye.' He didn't mind me calling him that."
The Master Chief said, "If you don't mind. We have to get going on the mission."
David said, "I have to agree with the Chief on this."
Meanwhile Erin had landed and was on standby until the David showed up. Betty and the others were on Archangel getting all the gear handled out. Betty walked to the Bridge because that is where she should be.
The Captain said, "Welcome."
Betty looked around and said, "How does it look?"
The Captain said, "We are ready. The Shadow of Intent is getting ready. Where are we going?"
Betty removed a data clip and said, "Everything you need to know is on clip. But it will only give you where we are going. How did you know the Covenant ship is coming with us?"
The Captain said, "We got orders that Covenant ship is coming with us."
Betty said, "Ok. I want a full system check. Then a want a full report in 10 minutes. Then we go from there."
The Captain looked at everyone and said, "You heard her. Get this ship checked out."
Lynn was checking her gear when she heard someone walking towards the cargo bay. She reached for her weapons but it was Andy and Matt. Andy and Matt were going though the ship to see where they could take their gear off for a moment. Then they came across the cargo bay when they saw that Lynn was there with some of her gear off. Matt said, "Having fun?"
Lynn lowered her weapon and said, "Only going over my gear to make sure everything is ok. I don't want any problems during the mission."
Andy said, "What some company?"
Lynn said, "Sure. We can all check our gear. Would this area hold up if we get hit?"
Andy nodded his head and said, "Sure. This area of the ship can take a direct hit from a Plasma round and we can still be alive."
Lynn relaxed a bit and said, "Ok. What are we going to do?"
That is when the ship shook. Then someone showed up everyone grabbed their weapons when they saw it was Betty.
Betty said, "I am going to cargo bay to go over my gear. Contact me when we are about to leave and then Pelican docks."
The Captain nodded his head and said, "Sure thing." Then went back going over the ship.
Betty was walking towards the cargo bay to go over her gear. Once she reached the cargo bay she said, "I need to get this armor off for a bit." Then she saw some weapons pointed at her. She held up her hands and said, "Don't shoot."
Andy said, "I thought you were an Elite."
Betty shook her head then removed her helmet. Then said, "Do I look like an Elite? At least I didn't kiss a Grunt."
Andy shook his head and said, "You win that one."
David was sitting down on a chair and said, "What do you want me to do? You want me to stay behind on the mission?"
Lord Hood shook his head and said, "David. Don't worry about it. You were only doing what you thought was right."
David nodded his head and said, "Ok. Can we please talk about what we are going to do now?"
The Arbiter said as he rose from his seat, "We should return to our ships. The sooner we get to the system the better. The longer we wait the more prepared the Brutes and the rest of the Covenant become."
David nodded his head and said, "I have to agree. The sooner we head out the better."
Then Lord Hood said, "David, Arbiter, and Chief. I want all three of you to come back alive."
David smiled and said, "Don't worry. With the Arbiter and his Elites on our side and my ship. We will come back. Also Lord Hood, nice to meet you."
David held out his hand. Lord Hood said, "The Honor is all mine." Then shook David's hand. Then David left.
Dr. Hallow said, "Good Luck David. You will need it."
Admiral Patterson put a hand on her shoulder and said, "Don't worry. The others will make sure he comes back." Dr. Hallow nodded her head and said, "Thanks."
The Arbiter left with the Master Chief. The Arbiter looked at the Chief as they were walking to the docking bay where the Shadow of Intent was docked, he said in a tone that showed a hint of joy, "I am glad to see you Spartan. The only ones missing are your Commander and you Sergeant. There was a memorial built for them. I was at the ceremony. Come let's win this fight in their honor."
David had reached the docking bay when he saw that Erin was waiting for him.
Erin was going over some system checks on this Pelican to keep himself busy. Then he heard someone walking by the sounds of it was David. Erin looked thought the cockpit door and saw that it was David. Erin said, "Ready to go when you are?"
David walked onto the Pelican and said, "Please head for my ship."
Erin closed the back hatch and then lifted off. David put his helmet back on then rested his head up against the bulkhead of the Pelican.
Alice said, "David. What is wrong?"
David sighed and said, "I don't know. We have been at war with them for the longest time and now we are allies."
Alice knew what David was talking about. The Elites were still the enemy during the war so David knew who his enemy was and wasn't. But now.
Alice said, "David. If it makes you better I will play a song for you?"
David shook his head and said, "I am not being mean or anything but right now I would like to be alone."
Alice showed up on this HUD and said, "Sure thing. I will let you know when we dock." David nodded his head and then went to sleep.
Alice moved to the cockpit where Erin was flying the ship.
Alice said, "Can you please take it easy. He is sleeping right now."
David had been up for about three days now without any rest. The only time he got some rest was when his watch was over but that was only four hours. Erin said, "Sure. I will take my time if you want me too?"
Then a message came in with a new location of the ship. So Erin set the course and started to move the Pelican to the new location. Then Alice said, "Why did they move the ship?"
Betty was going over her gear then the Captains voice come over the Speaker. He said, "Please report to the bridge on the double. Spartans please report to the bridge."
Everyone looked at each other then head towards the bridge as they ran towards the bridge some crew were running around. As soon as they reached the bridge the bridge crew were running from one station to another.
Betty said, "What is going on?"
The Captain said, "We got news that a planet is under attack. We are going to head there right now. But we can't because there is a person missing."
Then Betty understood. Then said, "Where is the Pelican?"
Then the Nav officer said, "5000 kilometers and closing."
Betty said, "Send a message telling them to pick up their pace because we are heading out."
Erin was trying to get to the ship as fast as he could without waking David up. Then a new message came across the screen and it was telling them to hurry.
Alice said, "Get us there as fast as you can. If they sent a message like that then something must be going on."
Erin pushed the engines as much as they could. Five minutes later they were docking with the ship. Then Alice said, "Ok."
David woke up from his sleep and said, "Report."
Erin poked his head thought the hatch and said, "We have docked."
David felt something wrong so he said, "Erin. Get the Pelican locked down. We have a big problem."
Alice moved into his armor and David left the Pelican. He headed for the bridge.
As he walked Alice said, "I have got some news but I don't know."
David started to run towards the bridge. Once he reached he said, "What is going on?"
Betty said, "The Brutes are attacking a planet."
David said, "Captain. Patch me thought to the Shadow of Intent."
The Arbiter came on the view screen and said, "What is it Spartan?"
David said, "The Ugly bastards are attacking a planet."
The Arbiter looked at Shipmaster R'tas then said, "Proceed to the coordinates. We shall join you."
David said, "Jump us to the Planet."
The captain said, "You hear him. Jump us."
The nav officer said, "Location confirmed. Engines are ready. Slip space in 5,4,3,2,1. Slipstream engaged."
Then they were in Slip space. David said, "I want a full weapons check then get ready."
As they got ready for the battle that was upcoming David started to tap his fingers on his thigh in thought. Alice said, "Head below deck and get ready?"
David stopped and said, "Contact me when we reached the location."
Alice nodded her head and said, "Get ready."
David walked to the elevator and then punched the code for one of the lower decks. Once he was on the deck he wanted he walked off and then went into the armory. Alice closed the door and said, "You are clear to remove your armor."
David removed his helmet then started to remove the rest of his armor. Once it was off David started the hard job of cleaning all of it. The Captain said, "What is our job once we get there?"
Betty said, "We need to destroy the enemy ships." The Captain nodded his head and said, "I understand."
Andy was looking around the bridge when he saw something not right. There should be a person manning the operation systems but there wasn't one. Andy tapped Betty on the shoulder which meant need to talk for a moment.
Betty felt Andy tap her on the shoulder telling her that he needs to talk to her about something. Betty moved away from the Captain and said, "What is up Andy?"
Andy said, "The Operation station isn't manned. I am worried about that station not being manned?"
Betty said, "I understand. How about you take the station?"
Andy nodded his head and moved over to the station when the officer showed up and said, "Sorry I am late. I didn't know we were heading out early."
Betty said, "Man your station and then give me a full report."
The lieutenant took his station and did a system check. Then said, "System's are green."
Betty said, "I want you to report in every 30 minutes."
He nodded his head and said, "Yes, ma'am." Then went back doing a system check.
Betty said, "Alice. I want to know what the weapons system look like?"
Alice showed up on a pedestal and said, "Weapons are ready. MAC gun's can fire two shots before we have to recharge it. We have about three Shiva warheads and some fifty archer missiles pods. And some fifty mm guns for point defense."
Betty smiled and said, "Ok. Thanks."
David had cleaned most of his armor when Alice said, "David. What is wrong?"
David stopped and said, "I would like the others down here also. If you don't mind calling them?"
Alice showed up in front of him and said, "David. Talk to me please."
David went back cleaning his armor and said, "I am worried. This up coming mission has me on edge. I can't stop thinking about going into battle against any enemy."
Alice sat down on a create across from David and said, "David. When we first went into combat you were scared out of your skin so I told you that I will not let anything happen to you. And it is true."
David lifted his head and said, "Tell Betty I would like to talk to her please Alice."
Alice nodded her head and said, "Ok. But you should get some of your armor on before she shows up." David nodded his head and then started to put his armor back on piece by piece. He had half of his armor on when the door open.
Alice went into Betty's Armor and said, "Betty. David wants to talk to you below deck right now if you aren't busy."
Betty looked around and said, "I am not busy what is wrong with him?"
Alice said, "I don't know."
Betty said, "I will be busy talking to him so that means you will be in command if you can handle it?"
Alice nodded her head and said, "Ok. Please head on down."
Betty looked at them and said, "I will below deck so Alice will be in command." Lynn, Matt, and Andy all nodded their heads then Betty left the bridge.
Betty went to the armory where David was. She started to tap her finger up against her thigh which she picked up from David. Once she reached the deck she walked to the Armory. Once there the door open and she saw David with some of his armor off. Betty walked in and the door closed behind her then it was locked. David looked at her and said, "Betty. I am sorry."
Betty walked over to him and said, "What are you talking about?"
David went back cleaning his armor and said, "For not being there when you went into battle against that Covenant ship."
Betty walked over to him and said, "There is something else isn't there?"
David stopped and then said, "Yes. I want this mission to be over so I can head somewhere for a couple of days."
Betty walked over next to David and put a hand on his shoulder then said, "What are you hiding?"
David sighed and said, "This Battle. Isn't right with me for some reason."
Betty said, "Don't worry. Let me help you with your armor?" She grabbed part of his armor and started to clean it. After 15 minutes his armor was done.
Betty said, "I will head to the bridge."
David nodded his head and said, "Sure. Let me know when we enter the system."
Betty nodded her head and said, "Ok." Then she left him alone.
Then David removed his weapons and started to clean them. As he cleaned them he could feel the ship moving in slip space. Then David felt something waiting for him at the location. When David first meet the 'Arbiter' something wasn't right. David wanted to kill him right then and there.
Betty walked back to the bridge and then took her position next to the captain. Andy said, "How is David doing?"
Betty said, "He is fine."
Andy then understood David wasn't fine. The way Betty said it. David must be really scared. Matt and Lynn took a walk around the bridge when the Captain said, "Please don't walk around my bridge?"
Betty said, "They are making sure the systems are up to date." The Captain said, "Fine. But I don't want them getting in the road for my crew. They only obey my command and mine only."
Betty said, "Watch it."
Alice showed up on the pedestal and said, "Captain. We work for section 5 and you better obey."
The Captain shook his head and said, "ETA to location?"
The nav officer said, "Not for another two hours. Give or take thirty minutes."
Alice said, "I have updated the engines so it would take us an hour and half to reach the location."
The captain said, "I didn't give you permission to mess around with the engines."
Alice crossed her arms over her chest and said, "Ok. Removing the upgrades. Three hours to get there."
Betty said, "Alice, leave him alone and let him tell Lord Hood why we were late?"
The Captain said, "If you put it that way. Please put the upgrades back in?"
Alice shook her head and said, "NO. I will not. I will upgrade when we get to the repairing station."
The Captain shook his head and said, "I am ordering you to upgrade the engines?"
Alice disappeared and then Betty said, "What is wrong Alice."
Alice huffed and said, "I am going to be in your suit for a while."
Betty nodded her head and said, "Sure thing."
The Captain stood up from his chair and said, "I want the fucking upgrades right now?"
Andy walked up to the Captain and said, "Stand down. If you don't then I will have you removed from the bridge."
Meanwhile David looked around the bay then pointed his gun at the farthest bulkhead and then pulled the trigger. He heard the hammer hitting the empty chamber. David removed the clip to make sure the pistol was working. Then repeated the progress for the next couple of minutes. Once it was done David did the same thing with his Assault Rifle. He had stripped it down and then cleaned it. Then put it back together in one minute. Once it was together again David pointed it at the far wall when Alice said, "Don't shoot."
Alice went below deck to clear her head and check on David. When she showed up she saw that David had his rifle pointed right at her. She said, "Don't shoot."
Then David lowered his weapon and said, "It is empty. I stripped it down and then cleaned all the parts. The Captain right?"
Alice nodded her head and said, "How did you know?"
David lifted his rifle and pointed it at the far wall and said, "The way you showed up. The look on your face." He pulled the trigger and heard the hammer hitting and said, "Good."
Alice walked over to him and said, "David. I would like to know if we can get this captain transferred to an outpost." Then an alarm went off. David put his helmet on slipped a clip into his pistol. Then ran to the bridge. Once there David said, "Report."
Alice showed up and said, "We have some company behind us. And it isn't the Arbiter's ship." David said, "Nav. Location." The Nav officer said, "We are about two hours away from the location."
David then started to make a plan on what he can do.
Alice said, "I will update when it gets closer?"
David said, "Nav. Drop us in the closest system and then get ready to fight."
The Captain said, "We have orders to get to the location."
David said, "Weapons. How long for the MAC Gun can fire?"
The weapons officer looked at the captain and the captain said, "Do it."
The weapons officer said, "Two minutes?"
David smiled behind his helmet and said, "Ok. Once we come out of Slip Space start charging the MAC Gun. And get a Shiva in the tube."
Betty said, "Andy, Lynn, and Matt. Head down below deck to get ready to repel enemy boarders."
Andy said, "Roger that. You heard her. Let us head below deck and get ready." All three of them went below deck and got ready. Alice said, "We are coming out of Slip Space in one minute."
David said, "All hands. Head to battle stations. This is not a drill. We are about to be attacked."
Everyone went to their stations. David said, "Betty. Get ready?"
Betty locked and loaded her weapon.
The Captain said, "I will not have weapons fire on my bridge."
David said, "I don't care. I want you to understand that we work for section 5 which means you obey my command to the letter."
The Captain stood up and said, "I don't care. I have a mission to do."
David shook his head and said, "As of this moment. You are under orders from Section 5 you will obey our commands. If you don't then you will be charged with disobeying a command."
The Captain sat down and said something under his breath then said, "I understand sir."
David looked at Betty and nodded his head. Betty understood what he wanted and got ready. A minute passed when they came out of Slip space. David said, "Weapons?" The Weapons officer said, "MAC Gun's are charging. Shiva in the tube."
Alice said, "We will have contact with them in a minute."
David said, "Ok. Get ready?" Then there was a slip space rupture. David said, "Alice."
Alice said, "We aren't getting a transmission from them let. They are powered down. Wait. They are getting power back."
The Captain said, "Fire?" The Weapons officer looked at the Captain then looked at David.
David said, "Hold your fire. They might be a friendly." Then some plasma rounds were discharged from the ship.
Alice said, "Enemy Ship. Brute ship."
David said, "Ok. Nav start moving us." Then the ship started moving. David said, "Ok. Damage control. Get ready to seal bulkheads when we are hit."
Then the enemy ship was destroyed. David said, "Report."
Then a Covenant Ship appeared and then the communication officer said, "We are getting a transmission from the Covenant ship."
David said, "Open channel. Alice. Make it look like I am alone here."
Alice said, "You are on."
David said, "This is Spartan 119. Commander of the UNSC ship Archangel. Who am I talking too?"
Then an Elite showed up and said, "Demon."
David said, "One-Eye is that you?"
One-Eye leaned closer and said, "It is me. Nice to see you again. Sorry for not sending you a message."
David said, "Alice. Please drop the screen. One-Eye what are you doing in this area of space?"
One-Eye clicked his mandibles and said, "I am here because I was following you. I wanted to make sure you are doing fine."
David shook his head and said, "Ok. What do you want to do now?" That is when another slip space rupture opened.
One-Eye said, "What is going on?"
His navigation officer said, "Excellency. We have a Slip Space rupture forming at location five one seven by four eight two point six."
Then the weapons officer said, "They are coming thought. It is a."
One-Eye said, "What is it?"
The weapons officer said, "Excellency, it's a small fleet of ten Covenant ships. Three Destroyers, five Carriers, and two Cruisers."
One-Eye said, "Get the weapons charging. Demon. You can take the Carriers if you can handle it?"
David looked at One-Eye and said, "I will ugly. Watch your weapons fire. We will do the same."
Meanwhile, the Arbiter was showing the Master Chief the bridge of the Shadow of Intent. The Master Chief was in awe of how far the technology had come. To be able to travel through space and slip space without being seen or traced was almost beyond belief. Cortana, who had been in the systems doing diagnostics on the defense and slip drives, interrupted the conversation. "Arbiter, we have an incoming message from the Unjustful," Cortana said with urgency.
"Aldo', put it on the view screen," replied the Arbiter.
"Arbiter, we are under attack. Back up is needed. Proceed with extreme caution," the gold armored Zealot said in an adrenaline filled voice. The Zealot then proceeded to give the coordinates along with orders to his crew. Then said, "Arbiter. We need some back up. We are out manned and out gunned. We would like to know how long you would get here to support us." Then the channel went off.
The Arbiter looked at the Master Chief, who took out his trusted battle rifle and nodded to the Arbiter. The Arbiter said, "Take us to the coordinates immediately. Weapons start charging the battle array. I want this cruiser ready to open fire on the Brutes as soon as we arrive."
"Yes, Excellency," replied both the navigations and weapons specialists.
The Arbiter turned back to the screen and said in a tone that was all business, "Aloe', brother, hang tight. We are on our way. We should be there with in fifteen minutes."
One-Eye said, "See if you can contact Shadow of Intent for some back up. We might need it."
David said, "Weapons. Get ready with the MAC Gun's."
The Captain said, "We are leaving right now?"
Betty said, "I am sorry but we can't. As of this moment we are in combat which means we don't run away from a fight."
Then the Captain removed his pistol and pointed it right at David and said, "I am ordering you to get us out of here?"
David said, "Nav. Course heading five eight one by five two point two."
The Nav officer nodded his head and said, "Coming to new course."
Then the Captain said, "I am asking one more time. We are leaving."
David turned around and said, "If you are going to shot me then do it already."
The Captain was about to pull the trigger when there was a sound of a shot being fired. The Captain's eyes rolled back in his head and David said, "You shouldn't have done that."
Betty saw the Captain pointing his weapon at David so she removed hers and then fired a shot when David said, "If you are going to shot me then do it already." Betty fired and killed the Captain.
David said, "Listen up. The Captain pulled his gun on a superior officer."
Alice said, "I have recorded it for you."
The Damage control officer said, "Sir. Unjustful is on the move."
David said, "Let us join the battle."
Archangel moved towards the enemy ships. Alice said, "Want me to launch our fighters?"
David said, "Do it. Weapons. I want a lock on the enemy ship when they fire their weapons. They have to lower their shields to fire so get ready. Damage. I want all personal to head farther into the ship. I don't want anyone near the outer areas."
Betty said, "I have told Andy, Matt, and Lynn to move farther into the ship."
David said, "Ok. Target the first carrier with the MAC Gun's."
Alice said, "Target locked and ready to fire in thirty seconds."
David felt like it was longer then thirty seconds. Seconds felt like minutes and minutes felt like hours. David shook his head and to get his mind focus the job at hand. David said, "Get ready."
Alice knew David was tense with this battle. So she said, "David. Clam down."
David looked at Alice and said, "Thanks. Get ready."
Meanwhile One-Eye said, "Ok. Move us in system towards the enemy ships. Location of Archangel?"
Ado said, "They are moving towards the enemy ships. The carriers have launched their fighters."
One-Eye said, "Ok. Launch our fighters also. Tell them to support the Human ones."
Zuno said, "I am moving us more into the system."
One-Eye clicked his mandibles and said, "Target the destroyers first."
One-Eye's damage control officer said, "Sir. We have some enemy plasma rounds coming right at us."
One-Eye said, "Evade them. Then fire our plasma rounds."
The Communication officer said, "Sir. We are getting a transmission from the Archangel."
One-Eye said, "Patch them thought."
David said, "What is the location on Unjustful?"
The Nav officers said, "They are moving towards the enemy."
David smiled behind his helmet and said, "Ok. Patch me thought to them."
Then the ship shook from plasma round. David was tossed into the bulkhead. Alice said, "We are damaged in section 5 area 2-9 are out of contact. I am sealing bulkheads now."
David said, "Ok. No more mister 'nice guy.' Alice I want you to fire a Shiva warhead towards them and make sure they don't see it coming."
Betty said, "I hate ship to ship fighting."
Alice said, "Unjustful on-line for you."
David said, "Hey One-Eye. You better watch it because I am sending a warhead in and we are damaged."
One-Eye shook his head and said, "Ok. I want you to be ok. I want to fight beside you again."
Then David was gone from the screen. Then the screen went to static. David said, "What happen?"
After he got his footing again. Alice settled the ship and said, "Another plasma round. I have sent the Shiva already. It would need another minute for it to be in position."
David said, "Ok. Get ready to fire the MAC rounds."
The Weapons officer said, "MAC Gun's are at 95% ready to fire in ten more seconds."
David said, "Once they are ready fire them."
Alice was tracking the Shiva warhead and then said, "thirty seconds."
Betty went over to a station and said, "We have boarders. I am sending the location to the others?"
Meanwhile Matt was waiting for something to happen. After two plasma rounds they got word that there was some enemy boarders on the ship. Matt said, "Looks like we have some company. Sorry Andy?"
Andy shook his head and said, "Don't worry about it. I will head towards the engine room. Lynn you will head to the weapons. And Matt you will meet our guests face to face."
Lynn removed her energy sword and activated it. Then left there. Matt left also to meet them face to face which meant he would go to the location and fight then right there. Andy reached for his Assault Rifle because he didn't want to fire his rocket launcher in the ship. So he headed towards the engine room.
Lynn had reached the location when she saw some Brutes coming towards her. One of them said, "Demon."
Lynn said, "Come on Grunt kisser?"
Then the Brutes came running at her and she went running towards them. Matt had reached the location and saw that some marines were there firing at the enemy so he joined them. Andy was about half way to the engine room when he heard some Grunts talking to each other. Andy came around the corner and open fire on them. Once they were dead he grabbed their weapons and Grenades. Then went back running towards the engine room.
Meanwhile on the Bridge David said, "How much longer for the warhead for it to be in position?"
Alice said, "Another twenty seconds. Unjustful has taken a hit on the bow but they are still in the fight."
Twenty seconds later the Warhead went off and the enemy ships shields flicked and then died. David said, "Fire MAC Gun's."
The Weapons officer said, "Yes Sir."
Then the lights dimmed as the round left the ship and Unjustful fired their weapons also. As the rounds went towards the ships.
A Brute on one of the ships said, "Bring up our shields now." But it was too late the rounds impacted the enemy ships and they were destroyed.
David said, "Communication. See if you can contact Unjustful."
Betty said, "I am going below deck to have some fun."
David nodded his head and said, "Sure."
Betty left the bridge and headed below deck where the boarders were. Once she reached the deck she took a look around and then reached for her SMG (Sub-Machine Gun) then headed out. As soon as she got close to the one of the boarding parties location she heard something running towards her. She smiled and waited. It might be a friendly. She moved up against a bulkhead to make sure nothing sneaked up on her. She waited and saw it was a Brute leading some Grunts. There was about twenty Grunts. She smiled because it wasn't much of a threat. She saw that the Brute was a minor which made things more fun. She waited until the Brute was passed her and then knocked it dead. Then open fire on the Grunts. Once they were dead Betty picked up their weapons and Grenades. She smiled because she wanted something more then her SMG. She then headed out again. She started to move out again.
David said, "I want a full report. I want everything to be ready because I don't know if there is going to be some more coming or not."
Then the Communication officer said, "We are getting a transmission from Unjustful?"
David said, "On screen."
Meanwhile One-Eye said, "What is the Damage is done to Archangel?"
Then the Weapons officer said, "They are damaged. But they can still fight. There are no more enemy ships."
One-Eye sat down and said, "Patch me thought to the ship."
Then David showed up on the screen and said, "What do you want Ugly Grunt kisser?"
One-Eye clicked his mandibles and said, "How are you holding up."
David looked at around and said, "We can still fight. We are fighting against some enemy boarders."
David took a deep breath and let it out. Then Alice said, "We can still head to the location after we kill them all off."
David sat down and said, "I saw that your ship took a hit you still alright?"
One-Eye nodded his head and said, "We are fine. I will wait for you to be done before we head out."
David removed his helmet and said, "You go on ahead. We will be fine. You kill the bastards for me."
One-Eye nodded his head and said, "Sure thing. I want to fight along side of you again."
David nodded his head and said, "Sure thing. I don't want you to lose because then who would I call a 'Grunt Kisser'. Or a 'Brute Kisser.'"
One-Eye clicked his mandibles and said, "Ok. Jackal kisser?"
Then the com turned off and then Unjustful headed out.
Alice said, "We will be on the move in a couple of hours."
David said, "Ok. Nav move us to the dark side of the Planet while we make some repairs."
The Nav officer said, "Coming into a tight orbit of the planet. Once we are in location I will sent out a probe to make sure we can see around the planet."
David nodded his head and said, "Ok. Have the Longsword fighters go out on patrols also."
The Damage control officer said, "The armor is at 79% we have 2 warheads left."
David said, "Ok. I want to know. Where we are?"
Then Alice brought up a map and said, "We are here?"
David's jaw dropped and said, "It can't be."
Alice said, "What is it David?"
David shook his head and said, "Alice. Contact Betty and Andy when they aren't busy because I have found them."
Meanwhile Betty was walking thought the deck of the ship. She had come across another group of Brutes and some more Grunts. But nothing she couldn't handle. Lynn had killed off her enemies and was on the move. She had met up with some marines and then they had cleared out a whole section of the ship. Lynn ordered the marines to hold this location. She went on alone.
Matt was at the location where the enemy was loading. Matt took a look around the corner and saw that they have set up a defense perimeter. Matt smiled and said, "You think you are save there but you are wrong. Dead wrong."
Matt grabbed a Plasma Grenade he had picked up from some dead enemy. He did a plan and then primed the Grenade then tossed it. A Brute Captain in charge of the boarding set up a defense perimeter and said, "I want some turrets pointed at the door."
Then a grunt walked up to him and said, "Turrets are set up. And also we have the other doors leading to here are protected."
The Captain said, "Good. Now I want a weapons check."
Then the Grunt walked away from the Captain. Then the Captain said, "I don't like these Grunts. They are only good for one thing and one thing only."
That is when he heard some buzzing. Then there was a bright blue light. Matt walked in and started to shoot all the enemy in his path. Matt said, "This one is for my best friend."
And went from there. Once the whole area was clear Matt said, "Alice. My area is clear. I am going to dentate a bomb inside their ship."
Alice showed up and said, "Can you access their system."
Matt climbed onboard of the ship and said, "Ok. Let me see."
Alice said, "Don't do anything let."
Matt waited. Then the Covenant language changed to Human words.
Then Matt said, "How sure are you?"
Alice said, "100%."
Matt shook his head and said, "Ok. Let me see." He pushed a button and the ships shook.
Alice said, "Ok. You can set the bomb if you want now. I have control and all the others ones."
David said, "I am going below deck."
Alice said, "You are in command which means your place is on the bridge."
David started to tap his fingers on the armrest of the chair.
Alice said, "Don't worry. They will be fine. Fifty percent of the boarders are dead and their boarding crafts are gone."
David said, "Ok. Lock and Load your weapons. If anything's comes on the bridge that is hostile shoot it. Nav. You have command if I am busy. Alice will help you."
David walked to the elevator and got ready.
The Damage control officer said, "We have made repaired the major damage and we are working on the minor damages now."
David said, "Ok. Once the repairs are done contact Shadow of Intent."
The Commutation officer said, "I have a signal and it is from Shadow of Intent. They are coming here ETA fifteen minutes."
Betty had walked to a location where she ran into some harder targets. A Brute Captain and some Brutes minors. She smiled and said, "I don't know who is uglier a Grunt or you guys."
She tossed a Plasma grenade and it attached itself to a Brute Minor. Then it went off. Once the weapon's fire died down Betty moved out and killed the rest of them. After five minutes all the enemy boarders were dead. Alice said, "All enemy forces are dead."
David said, "Ok. Contact Betty and Andy tell them to report to the bridge on the double."
Matt and Lynn both meet at enemy location where they came in. Matt locked the doors and left one unlocked. Once they were locked he shot the panel which means no one could get in with out cutting the door down. Lynn moved toward the location when she said, "Clear."
Matt said, "Clear." So Lynn came around the corner and saw that Matt had the whole area clear.
Betty and Andy had reached the Bridge a couple of minutes after each other. Betty said, "What is up David?"
Then she saw a Planet and said, "It can't be."
Andy said, "No."
David said, "Alice, contact Erin tell him to get a Pelican ready because I am going down with Betty and Andy. Also tell Lynn and Matt to report to the bridge. Lynn will be in command."
The communication officer said, "Sir. We are getting a transmission from the Planet."
David said, "Play it?"
The Communication officer said, "Here is it?"
Then David listen then heard a song playing. Then it stopped and started up again. David said, "Open channel."
Then the communication officer said, "Channel open?"
David took a deep breath and said, "Dragons are here to eat you alive and kill you." Then the signal stopped and the communication officer said, "Signal has stopped." David said, "Betty and Andy let us go and say 'Hello' to them."
Betty said, "Are you sure they are?"
David looked at her and said, "I am."
Betty removed her helmet and said, "Ok. Let us get going then."
Alice said, "David. Please be careful when you are done there. I am not going to be with you when you land."
David said, "Alice. I want you to support Lynn and Matt. If anything happens to me you know what to do?"